England was thrown a lifeline in their nail-biting semi-final against the Netherlands when The Three Lions' captain found himself at the center of controversy after being tripped by Dutch defender Denzel Dumfries post his off-target shot, leading to an initial goal kick call by referee Felix Zwayer. Kane's dramatic reaction, clutching his foot and remaining on the ground, prompted a significant pause in play. Following VAR's intervention, Zwayer headed to the pitchside monitor for a second look.
Post-review, Zwayer flipped his decision, awarding England a spot-kick which Kane coolly slotted home, nullifying Xavi Simons' earlier strike. It ultimately proved decisive as England went on to win the game 2-1 in dramatic fashion after a late Ollie Watkins winner. While English supporters erupted in joy, the verdict sparked fury over the legitimacy of the penalty.
Yet, UEFA stood by the call, citing a specific rule that sanctions players for actions that "threatens injury to an opposing player" in ball pursuit. This clause vindicated Zwayer's reversal, deeming the challenge penalty-worthy under UEFA's guidelines. The UEFA regulation specifies: "It is committed with an opponent nearby and prevents the opponent from playing the ball for fear of injury.
Playing in a dangerous manner involves no physical contact between the players. If there is physical contact, the action becomes an offense punishable with a direct free kick or penalty kick. "In the case of physical contact, the refere.
